Thursday, 15 November 2012

Sweet Java, 6050

So long as you can accept that service from the front of house is going to be a little lax, then I think you can really fall in love with Sweet Java. Customers are divided over the owners "rude" demeanour and "laid-back service", but if you take it with a grain of salt, and are feeling relaxed, you'll find amusement in his eccentric personality and even relish in the mellow mood.

The cooking here, by the truly lovely lady chef who's smile could light up Times Square on New Years Eve, is divine. Honest Indonesian cuisine, in generous servings, presented simply. Gratifying comfort food when you want it to be. Many of the delicious dishes can be tailored to vegetarians too.

The Nasi Goreng Special, $16 is a Sweet Java staple. It comes with two achingly tender chicken skewers smothered in house satay - order it and tell me its not the best you've ever had outside of Bali.

Nasi Goreng, $16

The Gado Gado, $14- chunky tofu, steamed potato, hard boiled egg and lettuce, dressed in a sweet and salty peanut sauce, is a killer dish for vegetarians. Even if you aren't, actually.

The Sweet Java establishment is a raffish hardly-coverted-old home, with adoringly kitsch quasi-Indo decoration. Dusky lighting and the oasis location on a residential street, make it a casual, yet romantic place to dine. Alternatively, this is the perfect equation for boozey dinners among well known and neighbours. I speak from personal experience. On that note, Sweet Java have a very liberal BYO policy (bring a carton of beer if you like) and even a self-serve bar fridge to keep your grog cool :D

This humble spot is a sanctuary for lovingly made food and peaceful nights. Sweet Java has "hidden gem" written all over it.

Food: 4.5/5 (Delightful!)

Service: 3/5 (Leisurely, but no complaints if you're not in a rush, 'cos these guys aren't either)